Dog Walks in Matlock

Matlock sits at the southern gateway to the Peak District, where the River Derwent carves through wooded limestone cliffs. It's a genuinely underrated base for walking with a dog — easier on the legs than the high moors further north, well-served by rail, and surrounded by a network of repurposed railway trails that make for brilliant stress-free routes where you can let an energetic dog really stretch out.

The town itself is walkable, with Hall Leys Park alongside the Derwent offering a flat, dog-friendly warm-up before heading further afield. Matlock Bath, just a mile downstream, has the Victorian promenade and the cable cars up to the Heights of Abraham, though most people come here for the trail network rather than the town.

Best Dog Walks in Matlock

The High Peak Trail Walk (4 to 6 miles, easy) is the standout — a wide, traffic-free former railway running along the limestone plateau, perfect for long-lead walkers and dogs that pull. It connects seamlessly with the Tissington Trail Walk of similar length and grade, giving you the option of a longer out-and-back. For water lovers, the Carsington Water Circular (4 to 7 miles, easy to moderate) is a complete loop of the reservoir with shaded woodland sections and open lake views. Black Rocks and High Peak Trail Walk adds a short scramble to a gritstone outcrop if you want a view to go with your miles.

Planning Your Visit

Matlock station has the advantage of direct trains from Derby and Nottingham, which is useful if you're travelling light. Parking at Cromford Wharf is the best starting point for the High Peak Trail. Carsington Water has its own large pay-and-display with a dedicated dog exercise area. The area is mostly on-lead friendly once you're away from livestock, and dog walks in Matlock tend to be family-paced rather than extreme, so they suit older dogs and young puppies well. The town centre has a handful of dog-friendly cafes that will bring a water bowl without having to ask.